FC Andorra goalkeeper Jesus Owono has received a 12-match suspension from the Spanish football federation’s disciplinary committee following a challenge that led to the death of Tenerife forward Jesus de Miguel. The 25-year-old goalkeeper was shown a red card after colliding with De Miguel during the final moments of a second-tier fixture between the two clubs on November 2.
Disciplinary Decision and Match Outcome
De Miguel passed away the following day at the age of 30. The disciplinary committee explained that its ruling was based explicitly on the referee’s match report, which noted that the player was dismissed for striking an opponent violently in the chest with his leg using excessive force while the ball remained in play. The committee acknowledged that the tragic result of the collision was public knowledge and determined that the conduct and surrounding circumstances warranted the maximum possible 12-match ban.
In addition to the suspension, the federation ruled that the fixture, which was abandoned seven minutes into stoppage time when the incident took place, will not be replayed. The decision prevents the teams from having to resume play from the exact moment of the tragedy. The score was tied 2-2 when the match was halted, and that scoreline will stand, with the federation committee describing it as the most respectful approach considering the exceptional and tragic circumstances.
Player Response and Future Uncertainties
FC Andorra released a statement on behalf of Owono on November 4, wherein the goalkeeper stated he was going through the most difficult days of his life and felt immense pain over De Miguel’s passing. FC Andorra manager Carles Manso stated that the Equatorial Guinea international has not yet decided whether he will resume his football career.
Manso explained that Owono is currently spending time with his family and has complete freedom to determine his future path. The manager emphasized that the club’s priority is to support him completely, provide necessary space, and stand by him until he feels genuinely ready to make a decision about returning to the sport.
